The brownstone buildings that you see all around Brooklyn, Manhattan, Midtown Manhattan, Queens, Long Island, Astoria, NY, and the surrounding areas were constructed more than 100 years ago, and like any building of that age, upkeep is required. When they were built, the brownstone materials were inexpensive and easy to work with. These days, proper brownstone restoration takes skilled and experienced people, and New Age Global Builders has over a decade in bringing back the look of these unique and beloved structures. Handling brownstone restoration projects isn’t like other restoration projects because the material itself is softer and more porous than many other materials, especially materials that bear the brunt of the weather conditions. Don’t trust just anyone with your brownstone restoration project, work with an experienced team that understands the deep history of these buildings. Contact us today to discuss your restoration needs.
Understanding The Nature of Brownstone Material
Brownstone is a type of sandstone, and sandstone has pros and cons. The material is easy to shape and carve, which allows for ornate architectural carvings to be done. The tradeoff with this ease of carving is that it is a more delicate kind of stone and can readily be damaged by environmental activities. Rain itself can act on the stone, breaking down the cohesiveness of the material. Freeze-thaw cycles which are common in our area are also damaging to this material.
Other damaging effects include the use of salts, which are commonly used on sidewalks and streets, and when broken down and made airborne, can settle on the brownstone material and accelerate the deterioration. Even plants and fungi can find refuge in and on the material and use it like hard soil, with their roots breaking apart the material.
Old Work That Needs Updating
While much talk centers around the exterior of brownstones, the interiors are also subject to degradation and poor maintenance or upgrades. With interior renovations, it is important to not only look at the plumbing and electrical systems, but also the structure of the building itself to ensure that it is safe. It is not unusual for additional supports to the framing and other aspects to also need attention so that the building can survive another hundred years.
Brownstone buildings in Brooklyn, Manhattan, Midtown Manhattan, Queens, Long Island, Astoria, NY, and the surrounding areas are now coveted because they are rare and offer a unique glimpse into past architectural designs. New Age Global Builders can help you to update and secure your brownstone restorations so that you can continue to enjoy your historic building. Contact us today to discuss your brownstone renovation needs.